phos hilaron

i learned this phrase today:  phos hilaron, or "this joyous light" from reading in madeleine l'engle's book the irrational season.

i'd just woken up from a nap, written a poem for a friend, and needed a title.  only afterwards, when i looked up the further meaning, did i learn just how fitting it was for this particular poem.

the phrase is from the greek and symbolizes an ancient hymn meant to be sung at the close of day (or in the poem's case, the close of a life).

this makes me want to continue to give intentional thanks (always of course) beyond just one day of thanksgiving.  this year i think i'll stretch gratitude from november 27th-december 24th, and then the holy days from december 25-january 6th (epiphany).

and advent is yet another reason to celebrate this joyous light!